A good highlight video is at the top of the list when it comes to securing a softball scholarship. You should have your recruiting video squared away and sent out by September 1st your Junior year. Starting early isn't only good from a recruiting standpoint, but from a development standpoint as well. If you start filming your Freshman year, watch the film, and improve, think of how much better your game and film will be by your junior year.
While you should be in a hurry to get your film out to as many coaches as possible, don't do so without establishing a list of schools you want to attend. If you send it to a bunch of coaches without even looking at the schools, you may have to fend off coaches from schools you have zero interest in attending. So get started on researching schools ASAP so your list and film come together in time.
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It is up to you whether you film your video professionally or at home. If you choose to create your video at home, there is a strategy when it comes to creating a solid highlight video.
Try to keep your video under 5 minutes; coaches are busy and don't have time to go through 10 minutes of highlight film. You have to catch their attention right out the gate. Columbia University''s Head Coach, Jennifer Teague said:
“The first 30 seconds need to grab our attention. Put your best at the front.”
That being said, how are you supposed to know what to focus on in your highlight video?
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Pitching
Obviously, your focus will vary depending on position. If your prime position is pitcher, that is going to be the bulk of your highlight video; however, pitching makes the list regardless of whether that's your position or not, because coaches are always looking for a pitcher. So, event if pitching isn't your primary position, include it. Even if it's just a couple of pitches. Coaches are always searching for depth in their pitchers.
Speed
Obviously, it's a no brainer to include fielding and hitting in your highlight video. But, everyone can field and hit well at this level. Showing off your speed is a fantastic way to make you stand out as a player. Make sure to include some clips of you stealing bases, and show your times. When you're filming yourself at the plate, drop some bunts and time yourself from home to first.
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When making your highlight video, focus on what makes you stand out as a player. Everyone is good, focus on what makes you better. You need to find your secret sauce and run with it. If you have a cannon for an arm, focus on that. If you are a power hitter, focus on that. If you can make it from home to first in under 3 seconds, focus on that.
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* Originally published on February 4, 2022, by Madison Machado
